You could compromise and of course if the restaurant is ok with it, you could do a few drink tickets so those who drink a lot can pay after their tickets run out. Or do like the first 15 min, 30 min etc.. drinks on you and after that people buy their own.

My ceremony is at 2pm and my reception isn't until 630...I have wondered about this too, feeling bad for my guests. But then I remembered...it's all inclusive. What's stopping them from just going together to a restaraunt if they are starving?? They can do the group shots and be done by 330 or 4 and have plenty of time to go eat or have some drinks. I definitely decided a cocktail hour would be a waste of money.Plus I wouldn't be there

Im thinking myself to just go to the lobby bar or another bar perhaps located close to the ceremony site and where the dinner is being held. Have to plan this one out. Really do dislike the idea of paying for alcohol thats part of an AI. I know your paying for some service too but nah. Doesnt seem worth it. And seeming cheap isnt anything Im worried about. Its the whole reason Im doing this away wedding. That and an awesome vacation.